February Students of the Month

Contratulations to the February Students of the Month at Milledgeville High School. Left to right are Brandie Gelwicks, Emily Bush, Keali Engelkens, and Ashley Wagenknecht.

CCSC Tax-Aide

The Carroll County Senior Center is sponsoring the Tax-Aide program in Carroll County again this year. Beginning Wednesday, February 10 there will be two weekly tax preparation sessions on Wednesdays and Fridays through April14. To make an appointment, call the Carroll County Senior Center at or (toll free). The Carroll County Senior Center joins the Internal Revenue Service and the AARP Foundation in offering this free tax assistance to the local community.

2010 AARP Tax-Aide Volunteers, as follows: Back Row (standing) L-R: Vicky Trager, Anne Haliotis, Russellyn Peterson, Diane Frese, Mary Ann Hutchison, Barbara Peterson, Howard Kennedy

Front Row (seated) L-R: Carl Gates, Frank Nester, Gladys Larem, Eric Trager

 

‘Fairy Tale Courtroom’ Coming Soon

Chadwick Junior High students are hard at work “in court” preparing their cases against the Big Bad Wolf and the Wicked Witch.  The play “Fairy Tale Courtroom” will be presented Friday and Saturday, April 3 and 4, at 7 p.m.  (Photo courtesy of CJH)

EMS Spelling Bee

Congratulations to the Eastland Middle School Spelling Bee winners. (L to R) Jameson Fagan, Adam Hardy, and Braden Lauder. They are all 7th graders at the Middle School in Shannon. Adam Hardy and Jameson Fagan will advance to the Regional Spelling Bee at Pearl City Schools. The winner of the Pearl City Regional advances to the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington D.C. (Photo courtesy of SueAnn Bamberg)

 

 

 

 

 

CrimeStoppers Benefit From CCSEC

CCSEC donated $1000 to the Carroll County CrimeStoppers Thursday, Feb. 4. (Left to right) Chief Matt Magill, Lanark P.D.; Pastor Michael J. Wey-1st Presbyterian Church Savanna, C.C.S.E.C. President; Mike Siciliano-Crime Stoppers-President; Rich Walendukanis-CrimeStoppers; Ron Strohecker CrimeStoppers-Lanark City Council; and Kim Sturtevant-CrimeStoppers. (PA photo/Tammy Burkholder)

The Carroll County Substance Education Coalition (CCSEC) donated $1000.00 to the Carroll County CrimeStoppers during the CCSEC meeting Thursday morning, February 4, at Lanark’s Heritage Center. The two groups have partnered to address underage and binge drinking in our communities by developing an anonymous way for adults and youth to report underage drinking activities, in an effort to keep our communities and our youth safe.

Through the hotline anyone can call CrimeStoppers and report underage drinking parties, locations where underage drinking occurs. The CCSEC and CrimeStoppers have developed posters and other marketing materials that are available for distribution about the hotline and the affects of underage drinking on our youth. Locally 56% of Carroll County youth report getting alcohol from Friends, 49% from Parties and 20% from Parents.

Carol Geary, Coalition Coordinator for the Carroll County Substance Education Coalition and Project Coordinator for the Strategic Prevention Framework-State Incentive Grant (SPF-SIG) stated, “With these statistics it was obvious to the coalition that we had to do something to make it easier to address the youth access to alcohol, and it seemed like a hotline was the best answer. Once we approached Crime Stoppers and we worked out all the details, it made perfect sense to work together on this project. We were able to fund the project under the SPF-SIG grant. According to CCSEC and CrimeStoppers. It has been a win/win partnership for our coalition, CrimeStoppers, area youth and our community.”

Funding for this project is made available through the SPF-SIG grant awarded to the CCSEC by the Illinois Department of Human Services.

“While callers do not receive any monetary rewards from CCSEC or CrimeStoppers, callers can be assured that they are making our community safer for our youth by protecting them from those who provide and provide places for them to drink,” Geary stated.

West Carroll Intermediate School

Fifth grade students at West Carroll Intermediate School in Thomson, in Miss Diener and Mrs. Michels math classes, recently completed a project about spatial relations.  The classes were given a “puzzle” to create a portion of President Abraham Lincoln’s face.  The puzzle was made out of dominoes.  The students lay their dominoes to match the puzzle they were given.  The students puzzles were them compiled to create the face of Lincoln.  The puzzle was designed by Robert Bosch.  The teachers found the art at his website (DominoArtwork.com).  The students only took two days to complete the project.  The project was created using 12 sets of dominoes.  The dominoes were provided by Lauri Biederman.  Lincoln is on display at the West Carroll Intermediate School in Thomson, Ill.

Students pictured are front row: Eric Morro, Cheyenne Behrens, Sara McGovern, Natalie O’Connor, Allison Law, Daniel Hartman, Geniva Beasley, Payton Haynes, and Nathan Brehm.

Back row: Stephan Sleeman, Dillion Sipe, Cameron Dreger, Elizabeth Rath, Olivia Brinkmeier, Kaylee Anderson, Luke Jones, Joseph Kleckner, Alissa Miner, Danielle Tinnin-Timm, Sam Bauch, Koltin Dimmick, Jack Cottrell, Grace Fehlhafer, Jenna Laho, April Bumphrey, and Josh Houston. 

(Photo courtesy of Christie Grimm)

Tyler's Justice Center

Tina Steele-Lietz, Executive Director and Forensic Interviewer for Tyler’s Justice Center in Stockton, was the guest speaker at the Mt. Carroll Rotary Club on Feb. 2. She is pictured with Mt. Carroll Rotarian Scott Parker presenting a check from the club for support for the center. Tyler’s Justice Center for Children is a non-profit Children’s Advocacy Center providing services to abused children and their non-offending family members in Carroll, JoDaviess and Stephenson Counties. (Photo courtesy of Lou Schau)

 

 

 

 

“It is more like being a Cheerleader when you do it !”

 

Mr. Donald Stralow, Morrison Junior High math tutor, and student peer tutors Taylor Park, Grade 8, and Kyle VanDerLeest, Grade 7, are a part of the special group of volunteers that promote education through student tutoring.

What is like “being a cheerleader?” Student tutoring is just like being a cheerleader. Mrs. Beverly Bealer, a Junior High volunteer tutor, compares her time spent tutoring young adults more like a cheerleader as it is equally as important to provide the personal support and enthusiasm that builds confidnece in a student to try and work through a problem as it is tsometimes o help the student discover the correct answer. Once a student has experienced success due to this extra help and their own good effort then a student gains the self-confidence to try and master the next challenge. The necessary skills needed to accomplish their school work are then supported with the confidence that they can do it. School for many students can be a series of challenges or the occasional obstacle in the path to learning that with a little help, extra help, they can be successful to move ahead in their educational challenges. It can be in math, English, or any subject content that needs some extra time and guidance to master a skill or a series of skills. Not many of us have been or will get the chance to be a cheerleader in our lifetime; but, there is something that every one of us can be and that is a volunteer tutor in one of our schools.

Mr. Stralow has helped as a tutor for over seven years at the Junior High working with students primairly in math,”It seems that this is an area lots of children have some difficulty; but, it is not hard to help them as I find out the night before with the computer the assignmnets and then make sure that they are completed the next day. I know that without my help some students would not have graduated. I was so proud to see them graduate as I knew that I had made a difference.” Mrs. Lori Benson has also worked with students in grades 6th,7th, and 8th for several years. She may work with one to four students in math or in whatever subject area a student may need help. Some volunteers work in more then one of the Morrison School Districts’ buildings. Mrs. Kelly Vegter has worked with both the elementary and junior high students as a volunteer,”At this age you can really see a difference in them as they grow. It is self esteem that is so important with this age group. You do not have to have a PhD to be a student tutor as the school provides you with Teacher Manuals and are there to help support your work. It is extrememly rewarding,” Also, Mr. Gregory Kruse works in both Northside and in the Jr. High buildings for several years.”I was asked by one of the smaller children at Northside if I got paid for helping them. When I answered that no I did it becuse it was important to help with their education. The child thought that was pretty cool as even at this age childeren realize that money seems to be the reason that we do everything.” Tutoring is a team contribution of Mr. & Mrs. Robert and Marilyn Schick who are both volunteer student tutors. Robert started his volunteer efforts after he retired and has continued to enjoy tutoring for over 11 years at the Jr. High while Marilyn has volunteered with the Elementary students in Southside’s classrooms. Ms. Courtney Myers, a fourth semester student at MIT, finds time in her own busy college studies as an Engineer student to tutor in math. “It is something that I do because I think it is important.”

Eight Morrison individuals volunter as tutors in the Jr. High building. In each case, the volunteers have tutored for several years. They enjoy what they are doing. They enjoy woring with children. They see a real value in their volunteer efforts; but, they realize what they receive back is a priceless reward for sharing - just a little bit of time. It is a contribution to a child that in a true sence may make the difference between success or failure in their education. It is a contribution that does not require a scholarly background only two requirements: you have to like children and you have to want to make a contribution to a child’ s education. If indeed education is the key to success in life, it is essential that from the very first school years until high school graduation we as a community need to support the best education possible for our children. As a retired person, I find that being able to help as a volunteer in the schools is -” a hidden blessing.” Mrs.Margaret Good reflects the feelings and the words of all of the volunteers, “It is a hidden blessing working with the children. You get back so much more then you contribute.”

The tutor volunteers that come from our community also include the very valuable contributions of student tutors, peer tutoring. Taylor Park,Grade 8, and Kyle VanDerLeest, Grade 7, are an important part of the tutoring team of 15 students that help their classmates and friends with math or whatever subject area may need some extra practice or information to master a concept or a lesson. Students working with students provide a relationship that can only be shared among the young. However - it is the help of a tutor of any age group that in many cases is the difference between success or a failing education. It is not only to better understand a concept; it is also the help of a tutor in organizing classwork and helping to mentally guide a student to mentally focus on what needs to be done. It is the important help of having one person take the time to make sure that you follow through on a class assignment. Student academic support and help comes in many forms. Volunteers are needed in all of our Morrison School District buildings. Mrs. Kaye Obalil, Guidance, coordinates all tutoring volunteers at the Junior High. Many more volunteers an tutors are needed at the Junior High. Do you want to be a cheerleader ? Contact Mrs. Obalil at #1 and find out what you can do to become a part of the team.

2-10

Valentines Day Section . . .

A Look You’ll Love: Six Simple Steps for Looking (and Feeling!) Sexier Than Ever This Valentine’s Day

Love is in the air: time for chocolates, candlelit dinners, and a stolen kiss. Yes, that most romantic of days is on the horizon again—Valentine’s Day. But if you are * like most people, chances are that carpool drop-offs, client meetings, and that laundry list a mile long have left you feeling anything but romantic. New York-based image consultant Marla Tomazin says that’s exactly why February 14th is the perfect chance to give your look, and your confidence, a little boost.

“We spend so much time being caught up in the everyday rat race that we often forget to take the time to make ourselves and our partners feel special,” says Tomazin, who has been an image consultant for twenty years after earlier experience in the fashion industry. “That’s why Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to put a little extra effort into how you look. If you can create an outfit that makes you feel romantic and sexy, that will translate into how you feel as well.”  

Tomazin says that the trick to looking romantic for this special day is simple: Just shake things up a bit. She says that straying from your usual wardrobe, whether through vibrant new colors or special accessories and styling, will make you look and feel sexier.

- Get dressed from the inside out. Before celebrating Valentine’s Day, take a few minutes to relax and focus on your inner beauty. After all, it’s hard to feel sexy when you are frazzled from rushing around. Tomazin suggests planning ahead so that you can take your time getting ready and calming your inner self in order to enjoy pampering yourself before your big night out. Clear your calendar and send the kids off to the sitter a little early. Not only will you feel more confident, you’ll look more refreshed and ready to enjoy your Valentine’s Day, on the inside and out.

- Focus on the first layer. Before deciding on the perfect outfit, spend some extra time getting ready by layering on your favorite perfume and body lotion. Choose a fun new nail polish color, and finish off the “look” with a matching bra and pair of panties that you feel great in. Tomazin says that focusing on the details of your foundation will make you feel great and put together—and it will show.

- Opt for not-so-basic black. Many of us love to wear black: It’s slimming, sophisticated, and sexy. Because of this, most people have a lot of black in their closets already. This Valentine’s Day, try to opt for something a little different from what you would normally wear in your favorite shade: Try a shirt with a lower neckline, a pencil skirt with a ruffled hemline, or a tailored jacket in a sexy silk or satin. Wearing something out of the norm will make you feel beautiful, and as a bonus, you’ll still be able to wear it for many other occasions.

- Wrap yourself in winter white. Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to wear winter white. Whether you choose a dress, pantsuit, or a top and skirt combination, Tomazin says to choose your accessories carefully. Pearls or crystal jewelry make a great pairing with this wintry hue, as does a simple metallic or neutral color shoe and handbag. (And if you’re wearing a skirt or dress, be sure to opt for nude stockings!) You will look glamorous and feel beautiful: Be prepared to get second looks!

- See red. Red is a bold, sexy color that is often admired, and yet few people dare to wear it. Try incorporating a little red into your Valentine’s Day ensemble and tone down the accessories to balance its boldness. Wear a simple black strappy shoe, simple earrings, and choose a small black handbag. If red is not a color you feel comfortable in, Tomazin suggests trying something in a pink or purple hue. Play around with different combinations before your big night out—mixing a beautiful purple or pink top with a simple black skirt or a skinny black pant—to find the one that makes you feel beautiful.

- Shake things up a bit. Looking great and feeling special on Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to bust your budget. There are plenty of tricks to make your look extra special that can be done without spending a dime. For example, Tomazin says that styling your hair in soft curls or a sleek up-do creates a romantic look and costs you no more than a little extra time! Try a daring new shade of nail polish or a darker eye shadow to create a sexy, smoky look for your eye. Consider a trip to your favorite department store to visit a makeup artist—a service most stores offer for free! The trick is to just do something different. No matter what you do, getting out of your everyday routine will make you feel extra special, and that’s all that matters!  

“Looking great on Valentine’s Day all comes down to how you feel,” concludes Tomazin. “If you feel confident, relaxed, and happy, it will show—no matter what your outfit looks like. Take some time out of your busy schedule to pamper yourself when Valentine’s Day rolls around this year. Your positive vibe and sexy attitude will be contagious. It just may be the best gift you give yourself, and your partner, this year.”

Marla Tomazin, Certified Image Consultant, established her image consulting business in 1990 with the goal of helping clients identify an authentic image and develop its effective expression. She has lectured at The Learning Annex on “How to Become an Image Consultant” and at The American Women’s Economic Development Corporation on “What Does Your Image Say About You? For more information, please visit www.marlatomazin.com.

Tips to Help Comfort Grieving Hearts This Valentine’s Day

For kids, Valentine’s Day is a time to exchange funny cards and eat boxes of chocolate. For adults, it’s often much more than just a time to send flowers and buy heart jewelry, chocolates, and cards—it’s a time to rededicate your love to one special person. But when you’re a widow or widower, or have lost your love due to any unfortunate life circumstance, Cupid’s arrow can pierce your heart in a very different way on February 14th. What was once a holiday of “warm fuzzies” can turn into a sorrowful day to overcome. Yet, says author Joni Aldrich, most grief counseling focuses on the holidays in December, not the one in February.

“If you find yourself alone on February 14th after years of celebrating with someone you loved very much, the void that you feel can be overwhelming,” points out Aldrich, author of The Saving of Gordon: Lifelines to W-I-N Against Cancer (Cancer Lifeline Publications, 2009, ISBN: 978-1-4392550-3-2, $19.95, www.thecancerlifeline.com). “It’s difficult to see happy couples all around you when all you can think about is the person you have lost.”

Aldrich speaks from experience—she knows firsthand the pain of grief and how challenging it can be to persevere through it. In 2006, she lost her husband Gordon after a two-year battle with cancer.

“It’s true that Valentine’s Day holds significance for most couples, but it was particularly special for Gordon and me,” she recounts. “After losing my father in February, the whole season had become fraught with painful memories. Then a young man with a lot of heart came into my life, and it just so happened that Valentine’s Day was right after our first date. When I got home from work, Gordon had left a bouquet of pink carnations on my front porch. So, it became a yearly ritual for us to use Valentine’s Day as the anniversary of our first date together.”

Red hearts and sappy songs on the radio can highlight loss as easily as they can inspire ardor. If you are facing this Valentine’s Day by yourself, perhaps for the first time, Aldrich offers some thoughts that might make the day easier to navigate.

- Prepare in advance. Maybe it’s true that ignorance is bliss. Even if you wanted to forget about the existence of “V-Day,” though, our consumer-driven culture wouldn’t let you. “Yes, I know you wish you could just hide under a rock until the last conversation heart has disappeared,” says Aldrich. “But ignoring February 14thwill only work until you see displays of Valentine’s cards in the store, or see the florist busily making the rounds. Survival requires looking deep inside yourself to determine what you might do to make this holiday less painful. There is no secret formula—we’re all different—but try to focus on the fact that it’s just one day.” 
- Know what to avoid. Yes, it’s important to stay integrated into the outside world, and to remember the rituals and traditions you and your sweetheart shared with each other. But consider the possibility that Valentine’s Day might not be the best time to do either. “Stay away from restaurants,” Aldrich advises. “For one thing, have you ever tried to get a table on Valentine’s Day? The word ‘crowded’ takes on a whole new meaning. Beyond that, though, the empty place across the table will cast a pall on any pleasant feelings you’ve managed to work up. Along those lines, avoid any of the ‘old favorites’ that might be painful. Order take-out or cook at home, but don’t fix that special dinner you used to make with the person you loved.” 
- Stay busy. Chances are you’ve heard advice similar to the following: “Get out of the house! He wouldn’t want you to stop living your own life.” And while such insights might not always be what you want to hear, they are underpinned with truth. If you’re dreading the rush of painful emotions and memories that Valentine’s Day will bring, try to plan an activity that will take your mind off of things. “Schedule some quality time with friends and family,” Aldrich recommends. “Play some board or card games rather than watching movies, unless there isn’t a hint of romance in them. This is definitely one day when romance can be very painful. Instead, focus on a new project that you really enjoy, such as redecorating your home.” 
- Allow the emotions to come. Remember that grief never fits into a neat timetable, and that it’s unhealthy to pretend that everything’s okay when it’s not. No matter how prepared you think you are or how much of your life you think you may have rebuilt after suffering a devastating loss, grief can still bowl you over with emotion. “Valentine’s Day is especially tough because not only do you have to deal with your own memories, but your senses are constantly assaulted, too,” Aldrich observes. “Try not to focus on the flowers and hand-holding and candy. Remember that it’s okay to cry. Let the emotions come—just try to keep them from overwhelming you. Depending on how you feel, you might write a love poem or letter to the one whom you are grieving. The point is that it’s okay to remember those whom you loved and lost.” 
- Turn your love to other treasures. Although Valentine’s Day is largely marketed to lovers, it isn’t limited to them—in fact, far from it. February 14this a time to focus on anyone and everyone whom you love, such as your children and grandchildren and friends. “Love comes in many different kinds of relationships,” Aldrich points out. “Celebrate those, even though the loss of the person with whom you were passionate still hurts. In fact, why not buy a box of the old, simple Valentines you distributed as a child and send one to each of your friends? Every day is a good day to tell those whom you love how you feel. And don’t forget to love yourself in the process.” 
While Aldrich has rebuilt her life and moved on, her memories of Valentine’s Days past with Gordon continue to hold a special place in her heart. “As much as possible,” she concludes, “try to focus on all of the blessings you still have in your life, and on all of the love that you still enjoy. Life is always a combination of good and bad. We should all appreciate the good, and know that when bad things happen in our lives the only way forward is to take one small step at a time. And remember that one heart still beats and must survive.” 
Joni James Aldrich believes that she has been preparing to write The Saving of Gordon and The Losing of Gordon for most of her life. In her professional career, she has worked in analysis, documentation, communications, and public speaking. However, her real motivation for writing these books was two years of crisis in the cancer school of hard knocks. She feels it is her destiny to relay this story to readers in a way that will help them in their own cancer journeys. Joni is also the author of The Cancer Patient W-I-N Book: Our Cancer Fight. For more information, visit www.thecancerlifeline.com and www.griefbeacon.com.

NEWS . . .

Blood Pressure Check at CC Senior Center

FHN will be at the Carroll County Senior Center in downtown Mt. Carroll, 306 N. Main st., on Tuesday, February 16, to check your blood pressure. The blood pressure check is at 9:00 a.m.

A Diabetes Review will be presented at 9:30, and will cover prevention techniques, symptoms, monitoring, and medications. The presenter will also answer individual questions concerning diabetes.

No appointment is necessary. If you have any questions, call the Carroll County Senior Services Organization at .

Soup & Sandwiches

The Lanark First Brethren Church will serve Soup & Sandwiches from 6 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 17, prior to their Ash Wednesday Service.

The service begins at 7 p.m. in the Sanctuary. Special music will be presented. Everyone is welcome.

For more information, call Pauline Erbsen at .

Teen Dance in Pearl City

The pearl City “Venturing Crew #27” will host a Teen Dance on Saturday, February 13, from 7 to 10:30 p.m. It will be held at the Pearl City Park District Building.

The cost is $5 per person, or $8 per couple. Snack food and punch will be provided. Appropriate casual dress is requested. For more information, contact Tina Disch at .

Forreston Reformed Church Soup Supper

The Forreston Reformed Church will be holding their Annual Soup Supper and Bake Sale on Tuesday, February 16, 2010 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. The Church is located at 501 Third Avenue, Forreston and is handicapped accessible.

The menu will consist of ham and turkey sandwiches, relishes, chili, chicken noodle soup, cream of broccoli soup, pies and assorted desserts and beverages. Carry outs will be available. A Bake Sale will also be held that same evening. The community is invited to attend.

Northern Illinois University Announces Fall 2009 Dean’s List

Northern Illinois University in DeKalb announces its Fall 2009 Dean’s List. The dean’s list is compiled by NIU’s academic colleges according to varying criteria. Students enrolled in the colleges Business, Education, Liberal Arts and Sciences, Visual and Performing Arts, and Health and Human Sciences must meet a minimum semester grade point average of 3.75 on a 4.0 scale. Students enrolled in the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology must meet a minimum semester grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.

Carroll County students making the list were: Cassi Stoner from Shannon, Melissa Wagenknecht from Milledgeville, Kristopher Kloepping from Mt. Carroll, Stacey Behnke from Savanna and James Kelley from Thomson.

Flower Power Fundraising

Tyler’s Justice Center is proud to present a new fundraiser! The Flower Power Fundraiser is available at www.flowerpowerfundraising.com. Once you have accessed the site click on Start Shopping. Next you will be asked for Organization information. Type Tyler’s Justice Center for Children in the Organization Box, type Stockton for city, Illinois for state and start shopping!

You can purchase products such as tomatoes, berries, and an array of lovely flowers such as Peonies, Lilies, Irises and Dahlias. When you purchase any product at this site 50% of what you spend is donated to Tyler’s. The Flower Power company guarantees their products so if you are not satisfied you can get a replacement, exchange or refund. All flowers are meant to be planted in the Spring in order to bloom in the Summer and Fall. This fundraiser is a great way to beautify your home and help a worthy organization!

Tyler’s Justice Center for Children is a 501©3, non-profit Children’s Advocacy Center which provides services to child victims of sexual and severe physical abuse. The agency also provides crisis counseling and intervention for victims and their families as well as follow-up advocacy services. The Center serves Carroll, Jo Daviess, and Stephenson Counties. Tyler’s Justice Center for Children is a recipient of the Northwest Illinois Chapter of United Way.

Carroll County 4-H Public Presentation Contests

It’s time to select your topic, gather your notes and practice, practice, practice for the annual 4-H Public Presentation contests to be held Saturday, February 27. The public speaking contest will start at 9:00 a.m., at Naaman Diehl Auditorium in Mt. Carroll.

4-H’ers may choose from the following areas for their presentation: Illustrated speech, formal speech, extempore speaking, oral interpretation, original works, speaking of horses or horticulture.

The demonstration contest will be held following the Public Speaking Contest. 4-H’ers may choose from the following area for their presentation: Food division - International, ethnic, or regional cuisine; nutrition; food science; food preservation; food safety; making food dollars count; general demonstration; horse demonstration and horticulture demonstration.

Both contests will be held in the morning. Savings bonds, cash prizes or gift certificates will be awarded to the top 4-H’ers in each area. Registration deadline is February 15.

The public is welcome to attend. For more information, contact Leanne Rahn at Carroll County University of Illinois Extension Office at 244-9444 or email .

Carroll County 4-H Federation to Meet

The next monthly meeting of the Carroll County 4-H Federation will be Thursday, February 13th at 1:00 p.m. in the Extension Office meeting room in Mt. Carroll. Following the regular business meeting everyone will go to the Good Samaritan Nursing home to make Valentines with the residents. All 4-H’ers, friends and families are welcome to attend.

Club to bring refreshments is the Carroll Co. Kids Club. For more information about the 4-H program, contact Leanne Rahn at University of Illinois Extension Office at or e-mail .

Carroll County 4-H Junior Ambassadors Meet

The Carroll County Junior Ambassador group is recruiting 6-8th grade 4-H’ers and non-4-H’ers for the 2009-2010 4-H year. At their monthly meetings last year, they planned a community service project and social activities.

The Jr. Ambassadors will be meeting Tuesday, February 16, at 6:30 p.m. in the Extension Office Meeting room in Mt. Carroll. Contact Leanne Rahn at the Carroll County University of Illinois Extension Office for more information on how to join the Jr. Ambassador team. Please call or e-mail Bring a friend.

Ashford U. Dean’s List Students Honored for Academic Excellence

Ashford University has announced its Fall 2009 Dean’s List for the College of External Studies, the On-Campus Accelerated Programs, and the On-Campus Traditional Programs.

Students in the Center for External Studies and in the On-Campus Accelerated Programs are recognized if they have completed twelve or more credits, have a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 or above, have attempted and completed a course since the last time of review (August 24, 2009), and are in good academic standing as of December 14, 2009.

Students in the On-Campus Traditional Programs are recognized if they have completed six or more credits and have received a grade point average of 3.50 or above during the semester ending in December, 2009.

Named to the Dean’s List were the following area students. (Names denoted with an asterisk are on-campus students.)

Chadwick: Catherine Downs, Bridget Gabbard *,

Forreston: Kristi Coffey, Mindy Welch

Fulton: Beth Balk, Rachel Bush *, Jessica Charneski *, Matthew Darby *,

Stephanie Hartman, Tarasa Holden, Jennifer Kasterke *, Bryant McFarren *, Cherie Paulline, Brittany Piercy

Jeff Raab *, Amber Rajcevich *, Klark Sikkema *, Kelsey Van Kampen, Amanda VanKampen *, Jamie Wall *, Karen Webb, MaryAnn Webb *

Lena: Brittany Rice *

Milledgeville: Laura Livengood *, Amy Strehlow *

Morrison: Ann Brackemyer *, Rebecca Covell *, Joshua Dykema *, April-Lynn Edwards-Eshelman *, Emily Frederick, Kristal Gregory, Corey Johnson *, Tracy Johnson *, John Kophamer *, Matthew Lindstrom *, Pamela Pfister, Kyla Renkes, Ann Slavin *, Emalie Sterenberg *

Mount Carroll: Rachael Delp *, Jacob Krum *, Raylene Moore

Mount Morris: Wendy Lazansky

Savanna Carisa Bundy *, Adam Cauley *, Christina DeMoss

Tammi Johnson *, Kateri Nesbitt *, Teresa Rittmer

Shannon: Donald Groezinger

Sterling: Ashlee Alber *, Derek Bushman, Melissa Dye, Lance Eisenberg *, Jennifer Farmer, Brent Gaffey, Melinda Johnson *, Edita Lec *, Heather McCue *, Benjamin Miller *, Anthony Regalado *, Jodie Wade *, Darrell Wallace

Sabula: Trent Mussmann *,

Founded in 1918, Ashford University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (www.ncahlc.org). The University offers graduate and undergraduate degree programs online and at its Clinton, Iowa, campus. The University is known for its high quality yet highly affordable online and on-campus programs. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu or call Shari Rodriguez, director of Public Relations, at x2513.

New Business in Northwestern Illinois - Full Service Commodity Brokerage Firm

Graintracker Marketing encourages farmers to call and investigate a different approach

to grain marketing, planning and consulting.

Bill Rausch, has been a farm-oriented commodity broker for 11 years and has started Graintracker Marketing as an independent full service brokerage firm, right in Savanna, Illinois.

The focus of his business is designing marketing plans, hedging, and cash grain consulting.

Bill also educates farmers on various crop insurance plans that are available and suit the particular needs of the farmer.

Bill is also the creator of www.GrainTracker.com, a web-based grain tracking system for farmers to input/access their yearly crop plans. He authors a weekly newsletter at www.GraintrackerMarketing.com  and provides seminars around the country.  

Graintracker Marketing is located at 1706 Superior Ave, Savanna, IL 61074. Farmers are encouraged to call 1- and investigate a different approach to marketing their grain.

Book Fair To Benefit CONTACT’s Programs

A book fair will be held at CONTACT’s Curbside Coffee inside Heck’s Frozen Meals and Deli, 1100 W. Galena Avenue Freeport on Friday February 26th from 10 a.m. until

5 p.m. and on Saturday 2/27 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Visitors will discover wonderful gifts for the children in their lives and support CONTACT at the same time.

They will find beautifully illustrated Usborne picture books like “How Big is a Million” and amazing non-fiction titles like “See Inside Space” that will capture all children’s imaginations. Also popular fiction titles by Kane/Miller will be available, such as “Everyone Poops” and “Conspiracy 365.” If you’d like to support the book fair, but will not be able to attend at that time, you can place orders on line at www.ubah.com/BF37529. Your purchases will be tax free.

Usborne Books & More independent educational consultant, Ieasha Munda, said, “Our Book fairs are a great way to support any school, charity, or organization. We offer one of the most creative and original book like in the United States, and we provide an incredible variety of fiction and non-fiction titles in all age ranges and subjects to choose from. Our books also adhere to the standards of the Campaign for a Commercial Free Childhood. We promote reading without promoting TV shows, fast food, or movies.”

For more information please feel free to call CONTACT at .

Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of the American Dream

Rockford area patriots are invited to the first ever TEA PARTY TOWN HALL event on Saturday, February 20, from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm at Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles Street, Rockford.  The event will feature panels on topics under the banner, “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of the American Dream.”  The cost is $13 each, $20 for couples, including a lunch of baked chicken and dressing or Swedish pancakes.  Reservations may be made at , or , and seating will be limited.

Among the panelists will be physicians, Dr. Mark Keller and Dr. Tom Wentland, speaking on issues related to the near–passage of a healthcare bill by the Congress, Rosanna Pulido, Illinois Director of The Minutemen, speaking on the Costs of Unfettered Immigration, Patricia Bainbridge, Rockford Diocese Pro-Life Director, who has expertise on Planned Parenthood, and Savannah Liston of the Campaign for Liberty, “Did capitalism cause the recession?”   Rockford attorney Bernard Reese, Jr. has argued for religious freedom in the “Cross in the Desert” case before the Supreme Court. Other panelists include John Danielson, speaking on the Declaration of Independence, Sterling “Skip” Skinner, discussing Basic Principles of Freedom, Jane Carrell on American Media - All the News That’s Fit to Hide, Dr. Tom Wentland on the Global Warming Scam, and frequent WROK and WNTA callers “Doc” and “Cheesehead” on Reaching the Public on Radio. 

Keynote speakers are, Christina Tobin, founder of the Free and Equal Foundation, a group dedicated to reforming  ballot access laws across the nation, and Randy Stufflebeam, a twenty year Marine veteran and current Constitution Party candidate for Illinois Governor, who will have a special message for veterans.

Tea Party is a nationwide activist group dedicated to reducing the size of government, reducing taxation and expanding liberty.  Tea Party encompasses a broad spectrum of American political thought. For information and reservations for the Feb. 20th event at Stockholm Inn, call Sharon, or email  

A new Tea Party group is forming in the Rockton-Roscoe area.  For information on the Rockton- Roscoe Tea Party group, call Doc at , or Jane at .

There is also a new Tea Party group in Stephenson County. E-mail . Bill Dietz of Lena is the coordinator. The Stephenson CountyTea Party meets the second Thursday of each month, 7pm at Dietz’s Old School Apartments, 111 E. Mason St. in Lena, IL.

Judy Treml Explains Why Her Contaminated Well Turned Her Into An Activist

‘I Couldn’t Let Another Family Go Through What I Endured’

By Matthew Alschuler

“I was sitting in the hospital, waiting to find out why my six month old baby was so sick, and the doctor told me she might die. I gave a bath to my child and I almost killed her. I didn’t know that there was e-coli in my water, it didn’t turn brown until the next day.”

So began Judy Treml’s story about her drinking water becoming contaminated after a recently expanded megadairy land applied liquid manure near her well.

On Tuesday, January 26, Judy Treml from Luxemburg, WI, addressed an attentive audience at the Galena Convention Center. A self-described stay-at-home mom, she became an activist only after her 100 foot well was contaminated.

“I couldn’t let another family go through what I endured. Our well tested safe just two weeks before the manure was applied.”

Judy and her husband Scott live on a 4th generation family farm in a karst area. In the last 12 years, her life was forever changed as 12,000 dairy cows were moved into newly constructed CAFOs within 2 miles of her home.

“I’m living proof that manure can contaminate a well in a karst area.  Wisconsin is creating stricter karst regulations for five counties. Over 365 families had to be poisoned before they did that.

“If you put 10,000 cows worth of manure on karst, and you don’t have contamination now, I guarantee you will once they field apply all that waste. I used to be able to sit outside my house at 6pm. I haven’t been able to do that for 4 years. Once they start to scrape those barns at 5:30 you can’t stay outside, and that’s only 1,500 cows.

“I’ve visited one of these megadairies.  It was spotless, you could eat off the floor.  But they don’t spread the manure near the factory, they spread it near your home. In Brown County, near me, they lost 100 wells simultaneously due to manure getting into the aquifer through the same karst fractures you have here in Jo Daviess County.

“He’s doomed to fail.  They all do.”

Fiorini, Zinnen, and Zurn Are Headed for Haiti

Stephanie Vavra, theCity1.com

As the Assistant Director of Haiti Bible Mission, Michael Zurn of Morrison has served the organization for 13 years, here and in the Haitian village of Jeremie.  Jeremie is a picturesque city due west of Port-au-Prince on the coast of the Caribbean Sea. 

“You can see its former glory in photographs,” Zurn stated.  “It was the setting for The Count of Monte Cristo, written by Alexandre Dumas.”  But after the recent, disastrous earthquake Jeremie is in shambles, and the Haitian people are desperate. Zurn and others will soon be on their way to help.

Zurn organized a week-long relief mission with medical personnel from Whiteside, Lee, and Cook Counties, to aid the island people he loves.  He recruited Jean Zinnen, L.P.N., of Morrison; Public Health Administrator Beth Fiorini of Sterling; Dr. Debra Drengenberg and Lynn McCoy, R.N. from Lee County; a male EMT from Chicago.

On Sunday, February 7, 2010, the small group flew from Chicago to Santo Domingo, where they will meet the last member of the group, a Registered Nurse from Florida.  For the next seven days this medical team will stay together.  Their first night will be at “Youth with a Mission” hostel in Santo Domingo.  This will be the last touch of comfort and calm they will experience.

The seven members must bear the cost of their expenses, including airline fees.  They will become self-sufficient units, carrying their own food and backpack water filters, along with personal items and clothes.

For the Haitians, they will bring 600 pounds of medical supplies.  Zurn expressed his gratitude for the generous gifts on behalf of the six Illinois volunteers.  Morrison Community Hospital donated 100 pounds of medical supplies; KSB (Dixon) and Community General (Sterling) Hospitals also participated.  Fitzgerald Pharmacy donated medications and medical supplies.  Individuals and businesses have donated cash to support the trip.

Zinnen said she is “excited, apprehensive.”  She added the devastation she experienced on her trip to aid victims of Hurricane Katrina is “one-tenth” of what has happened in Haiti.  “I want to go and provide some help and not be a burden.  Getting there is part of [the adventure!]” 

On the island, that adventure begins at 3:00 a.m. with an eight-hour bus ride to one of two sites.  According to Zurn, the team will be placed in front of the National Palace in Port-au-Prince or in a refugee center, one hour north.  Before flying on Sunday, they will be fairly certain of their destination.

Port-au-Prince had 200,000 inhabitants, many of whom were there for work or an education.  “It’s a real problem with refugees right now,” commented Zurn, as the survivors flee back to their villages.  “Homes are getting overburdened, many have no homes.”  Even families with homes are “homeless,” because fear of an earthquake keeps them from sleeping inside.  “They need canvas and mosquito netting” while they sleep on the ground.

Dr. Drengenberg will treat injuries and illnesses with assistance from the nurses.  Zurn will translate.  The EMT is familiar with emergency medical procedures.  The critical problem at this point is infections (of skin, the intestinal tract, and wounds), rashes, and diarrhea.

When I asked him the obvious question, Where do you start? he cited author Paul Farmer who said, “Right in front of you.”  There will be no triaging, or sorting cases from least severe to worst.  Zurn said, “It’s all worst.”

Our dedicated volunteers will arrive home on Sunday, February 14. 

If you would like to donate to cover the team’s expenses, log on to http://haitibiblemission.org.  Select Donate; choose an amount.  From the Donation Category drop-down menu, select “Haiti Earthquake Relief.”  Where it asks How did you hear about us? enter www.pacc-news.com.

Brinkmeier, Saxby Make Beloit College Dean’s List

Beloit College has announced two Mt. Carroll students have achieved academic distinction during the Fall term of the academic year and have been named to the Dean’s List, which recognizes students who have m

From Mt. Carroll, sophomore, Jennifer F. Brinkmeier, and junior, Brittany M. Saxby, maintained at least a 3.4 cumulative grade point average for the 2009 fall semester.

Beloit students generally carry a four course load and must select a major during their sophomore year.

Beloit College is a residential, liberal arts college offering 40 majors to its 1,250 students. Located 90 miles northwest of Chicago, Beloit is one of the nation’s most international colleges, drawing students from 47 nations as well as from 49 states.

Illinois Soybean Farmers Pleased with EPA’s Favorable Biodiesel Findings

But 23,000 jobs still in jeopardy

Soy biodiesel can indeed achieve significant Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions relative to petroleum diesel.  In its Renewable Fuel Standard Program (RFS2) Final Rule issued recently, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that all soy biodiesel exceeds the 50 percent reduction threshold needed to qualify for the RFS2 biodiesel mandate.  The same is true with inclusion of questionable indirect land use variables.

“We are pleased with the favorable outcome of the ruling.  We have been working for awhile to correct flaws in the original RFS2 Proposed Rule issued in 2009,” says Ron Moore, chairman, Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) from Roseville.  “Demand for domestically produced soybean oil and the future of the biodiesel industry in the United States hinged on solid findings  and the ruling was of particular importance to Illinois soybean farmers.”

Illinois is the nation’s largest biodiesel consumer.  Trucks in Illinois powered with biodiesel logged more than a billion miles last year. 

“B11 (11 percent biodiesel) is the most commonly used blend in Illinois because the state legislature created tax benefits for those who sell and use biodiesel blends above 10 percent,” Moore says. “B11 offers comparable cost to #2 diesel fuel and increased benefits for consumers.”

Thousands of comments generated during the EPA’s comment period provided extensive information for the agency to consider.  ISA, other state soybean organizations, the American Soybean Association (ASA) and the biodiesel industry, were able to demonstrate that some of EPA’s initial calculations regarding direct and indirect emissions were significantly flawed.  The groups also showed that the EPA had used questionable indirect land use assumptions. 
“We fought against the burdensome and unnecessary requirement that renewable fuel manufacturers prove their feedstocks meet the definition of renewable biomass,” says Moore.  “Biodiesel is a renewable, sustainable energy source that plays a significant role in our efforts to increase national energy security and improve our environmental footprint.  It also provides a significant market opportunity for Illinois soybean farmers and rural communities.”

Biodiesel tax incentives expired

While EPA’s RFS2 final rule is a victory and critical to the future of the biodiesel and soybean industries, production remains in peril.  Moore says Congress also needs to extend the national biodiesel tax incentive.  ISA will continue to focus on getting the incentive back in place quickly.

“The tax incentive just expired on December 31,” he says.  “Expiration has essentially caused the production and use of biodiesel in the U.S. to cease.  It has placed 23,000 jobs supported by the domestic biodiesel industry in immediate jeopardy.  Companies have already started laying off employees.  The situation is certain to worsen the longer the tax incentive is allowed to lapse.”

ISA is the statewide organization for Illinois soybean growers.  The farmers on its board administer soybean checkoff funds to support research, promotions and educational programs designed to increase demand for Illinois soybeans and administer legislation and membership programs.  Contact ISA at , or visit www.ilsoy.org.

 

I’m seeking info from their ad agency/ad dept. - am sending corporate our paper, too . . .

Kohl’s Kids Who Care® Scholarship Program

Marking the tenth anniversary of its Kohl’s Kids Who Care® Scholarship Program, Kohl’s Department Stores (NYSE: KSS) will award more than $410,000 in scholarships and prizes, ranging from $50 Kohl’s gift cards to ten $10,000 scholarships, recognizing youths who make a difference by volunteering in their communities. Nominations for kids ages six to 18 will be accepted Feb. 1 – March 15 at kohlskids.com.  Kohl’s continues its scholarship program and will double national scholarship amounts to $10,000 each during a time when rising tuition costs, tightening credit and less financial aid availability makes footing the average $60,000 bill for a four-year degree increasingly difficult.* 

“Over the past ten years of the Kohl’s Kids Who Care Scholarship Program, we’ve been truly encouraged and touched by the selfless and inspirational acts of thousands of kids who have touched countless lives,” said Julie Gardner, Kohl’s executive vice president and chief marketing officer. “We’re honored to be celebrating a decade of recognizing the volunteer initiatives of stand-up kids across the country. Whether organizing a local food drive, helping a younger child to read or cleaning up a community park, every contribution makes a difference, and we encourage parents, teachers, neighbors and friends to nominate outstanding young volunteers in their community at kohlskids.com.”

To nominate young volunteers ages six to 18 for a Kohl’s Kids Who Care scholarship, visit www.kohlskids.com. Nominations are accepted Feb. 1 through March 15, and nominators must be 21 years or older. Two nominees from each of Kohl’s 1,059 stores nationwide will win a $50 Kohl’s gift card, and more than 190 of them will win regional scholarships worth $1,000 toward post-secondary education. This year, Kohl’s is increasing the national winner scholarships where ten national winners will each receive $10,000 in scholarships, and Kohl’s will donate $1,000 to a nonprofit organization on each winner’s behalf.

Through the Kohl’s Kids Who Care Scholarship Program, Kohl’s aims to recognize deserving kids who have invested in their communities by giving them a jump start on investing in their own futures. Since the program began in 2001, Kohl’s has awarded nearly 11,000 youth volunteers with more than $2.2 million in scholarships and prizes.

Last year’s Kohl’s Kids Who Care scholarship winners included 8-year-old Hannah Turner who collected 100,000 clothing items for homeless people, 12-year-old Rocco Fiorentino who contributed to advocacy efforts that led to legislature dedicating $1.2 million to Braille education and services in New Jersey and 17-year-old Dallas Jessup who raised nearly $1 million and founded a community service project empowering girls to fight back against abduction and assault.

The Kohl’s Kids Who Care Scholarship Program is part of Kohl’s Cares for Kids®, Kohl’s philanthropic program focused on improving the lives of children. Kohl’s Cares for Kids benefits children’s health and education initiatives nationwide through its merchandise program, featuring special books and plush toys where 100 percent of net profit benefits children’s initiatives, fundraising gift cards and the A-Team associate volunteer program. For more information or a list of past Kohl’s Kids Who Care winners, visit www.kohlskids.com.

 

Winter Comedy Show & Dance For T&C Days Fireworks Fund

Polo Town & Country Days committee is pleased to announce a Winter Dinner, Dance, and Comedy Show to help finance their annual Fireworks Display. The event will be held at The Polo Room at 712 N. Division Ave, in Polo on Saturday, February 27, 2010. The cash bar will open at 6 pm; the dinner will be served at 7 pm. Entertainment by Fritz, a Comedian, will start things off at 8 pm and the band, Lyle Grobe and the Rhythm Rambler’s will start at 8:30 pm.

“Every year this event helps us raise funds for the fireworks display, which is one of the best small town Fireworks show in the area,” said Jennifer Grobe, T&C Day Committee member. “For dinner we will be serving Beef Brisket and Chicken Cordon Bleu, with Caesar Salad, Twice Baked Potatoes, Green Beans Almandine, and Cheesecake.”

Tickets are $25 per person and are available in advance at First State Bank-Shannon/Polo or from any Town & Country Days Committee member. “Everyone that buys a ticket for the dinner will be eligible to win lots of great door prizes the evening of the event,” Grobe added.

Also available this year is a Raffle drawing. Tickets are $10 and the winners will be drawn the night of the dinner and notified the next day. 1st prize for the raffle is $300, 2nd prize is $200 and 3rd prize is $100 – only 300 tickets will be sold and you do not have to be present at the dinner to win. Dinner tickets are on sale until Feb 24th, but seating is limited, so get your tickets early.

Call Jennifer Grobe at or Tami Sterenberg at or go to our website www.polodays.org for more information.

Morrison Man Held in Contempt for Failing to Appear for Jury Duty

Patrick Fitzgerald, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, announced Thursday, Feb. 4, that Gerald Lee Mance, 60, a chiropractor in Morrison, Illinois, was found in contempt of federal court today for having failed to appear for jury duty and was sentenced to 90 days probation, 30 days on home confinement, to serve 100 hours of community service, and to pay a $5,000 fine.

Mance was summoned to appear for jury duty in a criminal prosecution on November 30, 2009, in federal court in Rockford, Illinois. At the end of the first day of the trial, jury selection had not been completed and the remaining members of the jury venire, including Mance, were ordered to return to the court the following day. When Mance did not appear on December 1, 2009, United States District Judge Frederick J. Kapala issued an order requesting that the United States Attorney file a motion for a rule to show cause why Mance should not be held in contempt for failing to appear for jury service. On December 2, 2009, the government filed such a motion.

On December 21, 2009, Mance appeared in court, admitted to the allegations in the government’s motion, and entered into a stipulation of facts. In those stipulated facts, Mance admitted that after the first day of jury duty, he had stopped at the residence of a friend, who was a law enforcement officer, and had secretly stolen a blank Illinois traffic accident report form from the officer’s home. The following day, December 1, 2009, Mance called the district court clerk’s office and falsely stated that he had been involved in a traffic accident with a deer and was unable to come to Rockford for jury duty. According to the stipulation, Mance offered to fax a copy of the accident report to the clerk. Mance then proceeded to his office. That afternoon, when a Deputy United States Marshal went to Mance’s office and asked where the deer accident had taken place, Mance falsely stated that it had taken place in Morrison. The following morning, Mance faxed to the clerk’s office an accident report reflecting that he had hit a deer. As Mance acknowledged in the stipulation, he had not had an accident and the accident report was false.

At sentencing, Judge Kapala described the “brazenness of [Mance’s criminal conduct in avoiding jury duty as] almost unfathomable.” Judge Kapala commented that jury duty, while never convenient, is important to our criminal justice system. The court noted that another prospective juror on the same jury panel had a child with a serious medical condition, but was willing to reschedule treatment in order to serve on the jury. Judge Kapala stated, “I think your conduct was profane when compared to the sacrifice that she made.”

The investigation into the matter was conducted by the United States Marshal’s Service, and the contempt proceedings were prosecuted in federal court by Assistant United States Attorney John G. McKenzie.